Personal Aquatic Propulsion Device

ABSTRACT

A personal aquatic propulsion device may provide propulsion through aquatic environments for wearers of the device. The personal aquatic propulsion device may be used to keep wearers of the device upright and buoyant in aquatic environments and allow wearers to be propelled through aquatic environments.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims benefit under 35 U.S.C. §119(e) of ProvisionalU.S. Patent Application No. 61/931,820, entitled PERSONAL AQUATICPROPULSION DEVICE, filed Jan. 27, 2014, the contents of which isincorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The technical field generally relates to aquatic propulsion and morespecifically to personal buoyancy and propulsion.

BACKGROUND

Human interaction with natural and artificial aquatic environments hasgenerated the need for devices and systems that make the use of theenvironment more efficient, enjoyable, and safe. Buoyancy and propulsionare two important attributes sought by those interacting with aquaticenvironments. The numerous uses that have been made of aquaticenvironments have prompted the development of a range of devices thatseek to achieve these two attributes in different contexts.

Propulsion in aquatic environments may be achieved through the use ofpropellers to provide thrust. Propellers are operated through the use ofengines of a variety of types, and can also be operated throughhuman-powered mechanical action. Swimming may be used as a personalmeans of propulsion. However, many individuals lack the skills, athleticability, and interest to swim or to learn how to swim, or may have adisability which hinders their ability to swim. Assisted personal meansof propulsion, such as personal watercraft, may require significantphysical exertion, risk of injury, a high monetary cost, and may not besufficiently portable.

Buoyancy is used to keep vessels and people from being submerged in amarine environment or changing the relative depth at which one islocated in the environment. Personal means of flotation are used forrecreation, safety, and rescue. Personal means of flotation may be wornon a person's body, such as on his or her torso, arms, legs, waist, or acombination of those areas. Rescuers may use flotation devices to assistindividuals who are drowning or in danger of drowning. However, personalmeans of flotation may be disregarded, despite the increases in safety,due to personal taste, perceived or actual inconvenience, and relianceon third parties for safety. Furthermore, rescuers who use flotationdevices to aid individuals in distress may still need to drag or tow theindividuals through the water to safety. This requires significantphysical exertion, particularly where the individual in distress may notbe able to assist in his or her own movement through the water.

SUMMARY

Disclosed herein are devices for personal aquatic propulsion.

In an embodiment, a device may comprise a housing that includes an outercasing, a power supply, a propeller assembly, and a jacket connectedwith the housing, the jacket comprising a vest and a shoulder strapconnected with the vest.

This Summary is provided to introduce a selection of concepts in asimplified form that are further described below in the DetailedDescription. This Summary is not intended to identify key features oressential features of the claimed subject matter, nor is it intended tobe used to limit the scope of the claimed subject matter. Furthermore,the claimed subject matter is not limited to limitations that solve anyor all disadvantages noted in any part of this disclosure.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

A more detailed understanding may be had from the following description,given by way of example in conjunction with the accompanying drawingswherein:

FIG. 1A is an exemplary illustration of a personal aquatic propulsiondevice;

FIG. 1B is an exemplary illustration of a side view of the personalaquatic propulsion device of FIG. 1A;

FIG. 2A is an exemplary illustration of a personal aquatic propulsiondevice;

FIG. 2B is an exemplary illustration of a side view of the personalaquatic propulsion device of FIG. 2A;

FIG. 3A is an exemplary illustration of a personal aquatic propulsiondevice;

FIG. 3B is an exemplary illustration of a side view of the personalaquatic propulsion device of FIG. 3A;

FIG. 4A is an exemplary illustration of a personal aquatic propulsiondevice;

FIG. 4B is an exemplary illustration of a side view of the personalaquatic propulsion device of FIG. 4A;

FIG. 5 is an exemplary illustration of a cross-section of a personalaquatic propulsion device;

FIG. 6 is an exemplary illustration of a personal aquatic propulsiondevice jacket incorporating multiple personal aquatic propulsiondevices;

FIG. 7A is an exemplary illustration of a personal aquatic propulsiondevice jacket;

FIG. 7B is an exemplary illustration of a side view of the personalaquatic propulsion device jacket of FIG. 7A with a personal aquaticpropulsion device attached;

FIG. 7C is an exemplary illustration of a rear view of the personalaquatic propulsion device connected with the personal aquatic propulsiondevice jacket of FIG. 7B;

FIG. 8 is an exemplary illustration of a user wearing a personal aquaticpropulsion device jacket in an aquatic environment;

FIG. 9 is an exemplary illustration of a cross-section of a personalaquatic propulsion device with a handle for manual operation of apropeller;

FIG. 10 is an exemplary illustration of a motor chamber and drive shaftof a personal aquatic propulsion device;

FIG. 11A is an exemplary illustration of a personal aquatic propulsiondevice with a latch for opening and closing a sealable top of a housingof the personal aquatic propulsion device;

FIG. 11B is an exemplary illustration of a side view of the latch ofFIG. 12A;

FIG. 12 is an exemplary illustration of a front view a personal aquaticpropulsion device connected with a controller;

FIG. 13A is an exemplary illustration of a rear view of a user using apersonal aquatic propulsion device with a propeller guard unconnected;

FIG. 13B is an exemplary illustration of a rear view of a user using apersonal aquatic propulsion device with a propeller guard connected; and

FIG. 13C is an exemplary illustration of a side view of a user using apersonal aquatic propulsion device.

FIG. 14A is an exemplary illustration of a rear view of a personalaquatic propulsion device;

FIG. 14B is an exemplary illustration of a front view of a personalaquatic propulsion device;

FIG. 14C is an exemplary illustration of a front view of a personalaquatic propulsion device with arm bands;

FIG. 15A is an exemplary illustration of a side view of a personalaquatic propulsion device with a detachable propeller assembly stillattached;

FIG. 15B is an exemplary illustration of a side view of a personalaquatic propulsion device with a detachable propeller assembly detached;

FIG. 15C is an exemplary illustration of a front view of a personalaquatic propulsion device with a detachable propeller assembly stillattached;

FIG. 16A is an exemplary illustration of a rear view of a personalaquatic propulsion device;

FIG. 16B is an exemplary illustration of a front view of a personalaquatic propulsion device;

FIG. 16C is an exemplary illustration of a rear-side view of a personalaquatic propulsion device;

FIG. 16D is an exemplary illustration of a front-side view of a personalaquatic propulsion device;

FIG. 17A is an exemplary illustration of a front-side view of a personalaquatic propulsion device with two detachable propeller assemblies stillattached;

FIG. 17B is an exemplary illustration of a front-side view of a personalaquatic propulsion device with one of two detachable propellerassemblies not attached; and

FIG. 17C is an exemplary illustration of a detachable propellerassembly.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF ILLUSTRATIVE EMBODIMENTS

FIG. 1A is an exemplary illustration of a personal aquatic propulsiondevice 100. As shown in FIG. 1A, personal aquatic propulsion device 100has housing 104 containing internal components of personal aquaticpropulsion device 100. Personal aquatic propulsion device 100 has apropulsion assembly, such as propeller assembly 108 comprised ofpropeller blades, such as blade 112. A propulsion assembly may haveother propulsion components, such as vacuum pumps and thrusters, inaddition to or in place of propeller assembly 108. A thruster can be anytype of engine that develops thrust by expelling a jet of fluid, such asa liquid (e.g., water) or gas (e.g., air). A vacuum pump can be anydevice or mechanism that takes in water. A vacuum pump and thrusterwould thus take in water with the vacuum pump and expel water with thethruster, thus creating propulsion. Propeller assembly 108 may have asingle or multiple blades. In one embodiment, propeller assembly 108 hasthree propeller blades. In an alternative embodiment, propeller assembly108 has four blades. Propeller blades, such as blade 112, may be cuppedor un-cupped. Propeller assembly 108 may have positive, negative, orzero rake, and may utilize right-hand rotation, left-hand rotation, orboth. Personal aquatic propulsion device 100 may have backing 116 andshoulder straps, such as shoulder strap 120. Although the term propellerassembly is used throughout, it is contemplated that other propulsionassemblies may be used.

FIG. 1B is a side view of an exemplary illustration of personal aquaticpropulsion device 100. Propeller assembly 108 may have water intakeopening 136 positioned along a vertical plane near backing 116, whichmay be near the rear facing portion of vest 124. Intake opening 136 maybe in the form of slits. Personal aquatic propulsion device 100 may havevest 124 connected with backing 116. In another embodiment, vest 124 isconnected with (e.g., coupled with) housing 104. Vest 124 may also beconnected with both backing 116 and housing 104. Housing 104 may besealed with a tamper-proof seal. Vest 124 may be attached to spoiler125. Vest 124 may have adjustable straps, such as strap 120, which maybe used to secure personal aquatic propulsion device 100 to a person'sbody. Vest 124, backing 116, and shoulder straps, such as shoulder strap120, may form a shoulder opening, such as opening 132. In oneembodiment, personal aquatic propulsion device 100 has one shoulderstrap which passes over one shoulder of a wearer, diagonally across thewearer's torso, and around the wearer's side or waist. Shoulder straps,such as shoulder strap 120, may be used in conjunction with a belt (notshown) or other attachments for securing personal aquatic propulsiondevice 100 to a wearer.

In one embodiment, vest 124 and shoulder straps may be detachable frompersonal aquatic propulsion device 100. In addition, backing 116 mayalso be detachable. Personal aquatic propulsion device 100 may have arail (not shown) or other provision for quickly attaching and quicklydetaching vest 124, shoulder straps, and backing 116. In thisembodiment, the provision for quick attachment/detachment may have abutton, pull-tab, etc. for instantly separating the personal aquaticpropulsion device from vest 124, shoulder straps, and backing 116.Personal aquatic propulsion device 100, detached from vest 124, shoulderstraps, and backing 116, may be attached to other articles. In oneembodiment, personal aquatic propulsion device 100 may be inserted intoor connected with a life jacket (e.g., vest). The life jacket may have amolded space available for personal aquatic propulsion device 100. Inanother embodiment, personal aquatic propulsion device 100 may be wornby a wearer without using vest 124 or other article, such as theaforementioned life jacket. For example, the wearer may desire to usepersonal aquatic propulsion device 100 without a life jacket in order todive and propel the user under water. In this scenario, as discussedwith regard to FIG. 5, the propulsion angle of personal aquaticpropulsion device 100 may be changed. The changed propulsion angle mayaccommodate diving under the surface of a body of water or ascending tothe surface of a body of water.

Personal aquatic propulsion device 100 may come in a variety ofdimensions to accommodate wearers of diverse body proportions. Vest 124,shoulder straps, and backing 116 may be comprised of a buoyant material.Vest 124, shoulder straps, and backing 116 may have an outer layer offabric or plastic and may be filled with buoyant material, air, or acombination of a buoyant material and air. Vest 124, shoulder straps,and backing 116 may be inflatable. Inflation may be achieved throughhuman exhalations forced into the parts, or may be inflated by pumps orother mechanical devices. Personal aquatic propulsion device 100 maykeep the wearer upright (e.g., vertical) in relation to the horizontalplane of the aquatic environment. Thus, personal aquatic propulsiondevice 100 may keep the wearer's head and neck above the surface of abody of water. Personal aquatic propulsion device 100 may be adjusted inbuoyancy and in position and configuration to allow a wearer to “sit”higher or lower in a body of water. This allows a wearer to have more ofthe wearer's body above water, such as the wearer's shoulders, or less.The wearer then may not need to rely on external sources for air, suchas a snorkel device or air tanks and scuba equipment. Propeller assembly108 may provide propulsion, allowing the wearer to move through theaquatic environment. Propeller assembly 108 may be perpendicular tohousing 104 and thus also perpendicular to a wearer's back, allowing awearer of personal aquatic propulsion device 100 to move horizontallythrough the water from the propulsion provided by propeller assembly108.

Personal aquatic propulsion device 100 may have lights, a radio, amicrophone, and speakers (not shown), which may be waterproof. In oneembodiment, spoiler 125 may have lights capable of intermittentflashing. In another embodiment, spoiler 125 may have a radio,microphone, and speakers (not shown). Solar cells (not shown) may alsobe part of spoiler 125. Personal aquatic propulsion device 100 may havesensors (not shown), including temperature sensors, that may be used todetect conditions in the aquatic environment and of the user, such asbody temperature. Personal aquatic propulsion device 100 may have asatellite navigation device, such as global position satellite (GPS)device or receiver. Personal aquatic propulsion device 100 may have aradio-frequency identification (RFID) tag.

Personal aquatic propulsion device 100 may have a user attachment (e.g.,vest 124) that includes a top portion having an opening for receivingthe head and neck of a wearer of the vest with a forward facing frontportion (e.g., opposite backing 116) and a rear facing rear portion(e.g., along backing 116) of the vest releasably securable to enclose anupper portion of the body of the vest wearer while forming an openbottom for receiving a lower portion of the vest wearer.

FIG. 2A is an exemplary illustration of personal aquatic propulsiondevice 200. As shown in FIG. 2A, personal aquatic propulsion device 200has housing 204 containing internal components of personal aquaticpropulsion device 200. Housing 204 may have groove 224 inlaid in itsbody. Groove 224 may have solar cells or solar panels which may be inthe form of a strip. In one embodiment, the solar strip in groove 224may charge a power supply (not shown). Personal aquatic propulsiondevice 200 has propeller assembly 208 comprised of propeller blades,such as propeller blade 212. Personal aquatic propulsion device 200 mayhave backing 220 and fins, such as fin 216, connected with housing 204.Fins, such as fin 216, may be capable of rotation, and may be lockedinto position at different angles or folded back against housing 204.Fins may have lights capable of intermittent flashing, and may also havesound emitting devices, such as sonar pulsating microphones.

FIG. 2B is a side view of an exemplary illustration of personal aquaticpropulsion device 200. Propeller assembly 208 may have water intakeopening 248. Personal aquatic propulsion device 200 may have vest 228connected with backing 220. In another embodiment, personal aquaticpropulsion device 200 is connected with housing 204. Personal aquaticpropulsion device 200 may also be connected with both backing 220 andhousing 204. Backing 220 may form or have a neck support (not shown).Vest 228 may have adjustable straps, such as strap 240, which may beused to secure personal aquatic propulsion device 200 to a person'sbody. Personal aquatic propulsion device 200 may have shoulder straps,such as shoulder strap 232. Shoulder strap 232 may be connected withbacking 220 and vest 228, and may be adjustable. Vest 228, backing 220,and shoulder straps, such as shoulder strap 232, may form a shoulderopening, such as opening 236. Vest 228 may have water breaker 244. Waterbreaker 244 may break the surface tension of the water in front of awearer of personal aquatic propulsion device 200 during operation anddirect the turbulent water away from the wearer's body. Water breaker244 may be adjustable, and may be moved to a lower or higher portion ofvest 228. In another embodiment, water breaker 244 may be fixed in itslocation on vest 228. In another embodiment, multiple water breakers 244may be situated on vest 228. Water breaker 244 may also be situated onshoulder straps.

FIG. 3A is an exemplary illustration of personal aquatic propulsiondevice 300. As shown in FIG. 3A, personal aquatic propulsion device 300has housing 304 containing internal components of personal aquaticpropulsion device 300. Housing 304 may include propeller assembly 312comprised of propeller blades, such as blade 316. Backing 308 may beconnected with housing 304 and propeller assembly 312. Backing 308 maybe molded to housing 304. Backing 308 may have lower extension 320.Lower extension 320 may be used for supporting a wearer's lower back orbuttocks. Lower extension 320 may also be used as a handle or hook forcarrying and storing personal aquatic propulsion device 300. Lowerextension 320 may be adjustable in position and in length. In oneembodiment, lower extension 320 is retractable and may be adjustable inlength. In another embodiment, lower extension 320 is comprised of acollapsible, telescoping section, allowing lower extension 320 tolengthen and shorten. Fins, such as fin 324, may be attached to personalaquatic propulsion device 300.

FIG. 3B is a side view of an exemplary illustration of personal aquaticpropulsion device 300. Personal aquatic propulsion device 300 may havevest 332 connected with backing 308. Vest 332 may also be connected withhousing 304 instead of backing 308. In another embodiment, vest 332 maybe connected with backing 308 in addition to housing 304. Vest 332 maybe connected with adjustable shoulder strap 328, which may be connectedwith backing 308 and, alternatively or in addition, housing 304. Vest332 may have adjustable straps, such as strap 336, for wearers to securepersonal aquatic propulsion device 300 to themselves. Backing 308 mayinclude water intake portion 340 comprised of water intake ports 344connected with propeller assembly 312.

FIG. 4A is an exemplary illustration of personal aquatic propulsiondevice 400. Personal aquatic propulsion device 400 may have housing 404containing internal components of personal aquatic propulsion device400. Housing 404 may include groove 412. Groove 412 may have set in itpropeller assembly 416 comprised of propeller blades, such as blade 420.Personal aquatic propulsion device 400 may have backing 408 connectedwith housing 404. Backing 408 may be molded to housing 404. Backing 408may include lower extension 424. Backing 408 may be shaped to form fins,such as fin 406. Lower extension 424 may provide lower back or buttockssupport for a wearer of personal aquatic propulsion device 400. Lowerextension 424 may be connected with a joint, such as joint 460. Joint460 may operate as a hinge to move lower extension 424 through a rangeof motion. For example, joint 460 may allow lower extension 424 to beretracted towards propeller assembly 416. In another example, joint 460may allow lower extension 424 to be retracted towards backing 408.Backing 408 or propeller assembly 416 may be chiseled to a shape thatwill fit lower extension 424 securely and hide from view, for example.Lower extension 424 may be locked into position. Joint 460 may bespherical and may allow lower extension 424 to be rotated. Rotation oflower extension 424 may be accomplished in combination with a hingingaction.

FIG. 4B is a side view of an exemplary illustration of personal aquaticpropulsion device 400. Personal aquatic propulsion device 400 may havevest 440. Vest 440 may have one or more adjustable straps, such as strap444, for wearers to secure personal aquatic propulsion device 400 tothemselves. An adjustable strap, such as strap 444, may utilize alatching or hook-and-loop fastening mechanism. Vest 440 may be connectedwith shoulder strap 428, which may be adjustable. Shoulder strap 428 mayhave control panel 432 with one or more buttons, such as button 436, forcontrolling propeller assembly 416. Control panel 432 may include gaugesand indicators, such as a battery charge level indicator and a clock.Control panel 432 may be detachable from shoulder strap 428. In analternative embodiment, control panel 432 may be attached to vest 440.In another embodiment, control panel 434 may comprise a handheld device.Shoulder strap 428 may be connected with backing 408, housing 404, or acombination of backing 408 and housing 404, as well as vest 440.Propeller assembly 416 may include water intake shroud 452. The shoulderstraps, such as shoulder strap 428, may have water breaker 456. Waterbreaker 456 may break the surface tension of the water in front of awearer of personal aquatic propulsion device 400 during operation anddirect the turbulent water away from the wearer's body.

FIG. 5 is an exemplary illustration of a cross-section of personalaquatic propulsion device 500. Personal aquatic propulsion device 500may have outer casing 504 connected with first seal 520. First seal 520may operate as a gasket. Outer casing 504 may contain power supply 508,buoyancy chamber 512, and motor 516. Motor 516 may drive shaft 540 whichpasses through first seal 520 to rotatable gear shaft 524. Rotatablegear shaft 524 may be housed in flexible housing 528 connected withouter casing 504, first seal 520, or both outer casing 504 and firstseal 520. Flexible housing 528 may also be connected with second seal556, propeller shroud 544, or both second seal 556 and propeller shroud544. Shaft 540 passes from rotatable gear shaft 524 through second seal556 into propeller shroud 544. Propeller assembly 532, comprised ofblades, such as blade 536, may be connected with shaft 540 insidepropeller shroud 544. Propeller assembly 532 may have shroud guard 548which may have adjusting rod 552.

Personal aquatic propulsion device 500 may be rotated using rotatablegear shaft 524 to different angles. Rotatable gear shaft 524 may belocked into position at a desired angle and unlocked when a differentpropulsion angle is desired or for storing personal aquatic propulsiondevice 500. Power supply 508 may be rechargeable. Outer casing 504 mayhave a latch allowing outer casing 504 to be opened. When closed, outercasing 504 forms a watertight seal along first seal 520 keeping internalcomponents of personal aquatic propulsion device 500 from being exposedto the aquatic environment. Motor 516 may be an electric motor and mayuse power supply 508 as a power source. Motor 516 may be controlledusing controls (not shown) on outer casing 504, controls (not shown)wired to motor 516, or controls (not shown) in wireless communicationwith personal aquatic propulsion device 500. Motor 516 may be remotelyactivated and deactivated.

FIG. 6 is an exemplary illustration of personal aquatic propulsiondevice jacket 600. Personal aquatic propulsion device jacket 600 mayhave vest 624. Jacket 600 may include strap, such as strap 608, forsecuring aquatic propulsion devices, such as personal aquatic propulsiondevice 604, to vest 624. Vest 624 may allow for multiple personalaquatic propulsion devices, such as personal aquatic propulsion device604 and personal aquatic propulsion device 628, simultaneously. Personalaquatic propulsion devices may be secured to each other using a rod ortubing, such as rod 620. Rod 620 may contain wiring, and may connectpersonal aquatic propulsion devices to a controller. Personal aquaticpropulsion devices of jacket 600 may also share power through wiring inrod 620. Personal aquatic propulsion devices may be configured toprovide thrust independent of one another to enable finer control ofpersonal aquatic propulsion device jacket 600 as well as to provideredundancy.

FIG. 7A is a front view of an exemplary illustration of a personalaquatic propulsion device. The illustration depicts personal aquaticpropulsion device jacket 700 with shoulder straps, control panel 724 andbuttons, such as button 728, adjustable front clasp 716 for vest 712,and zippered pockets, such as pocket 708. Pocket 708, may serve asinsertion points for buoyancy devices, or may have buoyancy aids insidethem connected to personal aquatic propulsion device jacket 700. Pocketsmay be used for storage and may include items such as whistles, firstaid kits, multimedia devices, and so forth. Pockets may include clasps,loops, interior pockets, etc., for securing items. Pockets may allow forthe insertion of mobile devices, such as smartphones, and may protectthe smartphones from aquatic environments while allowing a user of thepersonal aquatic propulsion device jacket 700 to interact with themobile device. For example, a user may attach waterproof headphones or awaterproof headset to the smartphone through the pocket while keepingthe smartphone protected from the aquatic environment.

Shoulder straps are depicted in harness form 704 with the shoulderstraps connected across the front of personal aquatic propulsion devicejacket 700 forming a head opening. The front of harness 704 may latchonto the front of vest 712. Personal aquatic propulsion device jacket700 may be connected with backing 732 having lower extension 720.Personal aquatic propulsion device 700 may be decorated, painted, ortreated with hydrophobic seals or coatings. In one embodiment, personalaquatic propulsion device may have a dye release container (not shown).

FIG. 7B is a side view of personal aquatic propulsion device jacket 700illustrated in FIG. 7A, and personal aquatic propulsion device 736.Personal aquatic propulsion device 736 may be connected with backing 740which may be connected with jacket 700. Backing 740 may be connectedwith housing 748 of personal aquatic propulsion device 736. Waterbreaker 744 may be mounted on harness 704. In one embodiment, a smallharness or lanyard may be attached to harness 704 for carrying youngchildren or infants.

FIG. 7C is a rear view of personal aquatic propulsion device jacket 700illustrated in FIG. 7A and personal aquatic propulsion device 736depicted in FIG. 7B. Personal aquatic propulsion device 736 may havegroove 752 inlaid in housing 748. Propeller assembly 756 may be set ingroove 752.

FIG. 8 is an exemplary illustration of a front view of user 804 wearingan exemplary embodiment of personal aquatic propulsion device 800. User804 may have his or her body kept buoyant in an aquatic environment 808by personal aquatic propulsion device 800 such that user's 804 head,neck, and shoulders are above the plane of the water level. Dotted line801 is an estimated water line.

FIG. 9 is an exemplary illustration of a cross-section of personalaquatic propulsion device 900. Personal aquatic propulsion device 900may have handle 904 connected with shaft 908 inside personal aquaticpropulsion device 900 housing 912. Shaft 908 may drive propeller 916. Inone embodiment, handle 904 may be turned by hand, allowing wearers topower propeller 916 through physical action. In another embodiment,handle 904 may be connected with a hand-cycle or pedal cycle assembly,allowing a person to power propeller 916 by using the hand-bike, cycleassembly, or both. In another embodiment, personal aquatic propulsiondevice 900 has a back-up motor to drive shaft 908.

FIG. 10 is an exemplary illustration of motor chamber 1004 and driveshaft 1008 of a personal aquatic propulsion device. Drive shaft 1008 maybe driven by a motor. A motor may be contained in motor chamber 1004.Drive shaft 1008 may be contained in an extendable/collapsible rod.Drive shaft 1008 may be connected with gear 1012, which may be capableof being rotated to different angles relative to drive shaft 1008 fromthe motor in motor housing 1004. In one exemplary embodiment, gear 1012may be rotated to a right angle. Gear 1012 may be one or more bevelgears or the like which can allow the drive shaft and the propeller tooperate in conjunction at different angles along a vertical orhorizontal plane.

FIG. 11A is an exemplary illustration of a side view of a partialcross-section of personal aquatic propulsion device 1100. Personalaquatic propulsion device 1100 may include latch 1108. Latch 1108 may beattached to lid 1104 of personal aquatic propulsion device 1100. Latch1108 may include a locking mechanism which connects latch 1108 with body1124 of personal aquatic propulsion device 1100. Latch 1108 may form awater-tight seal along when in a closed position. Latch 1108 may connectlid 1104 with interface 1112 which connects with body 1124. Interface1112 may comprise a gasket.

FIG. 11B is an exemplary illustration of a side view of latch 1108 forpersonal aquatic propulsion device 1100. Latch 1108 may have handle 1128and may have a locking mechanism 1132.

FIG. 12 is an exemplary illustration of a side view of a partialcross-section of personal aquatic propulsion device 1200. Personalaquatic propulsion device 1200 may be connected with controller 1204.Controller 1204 may include buttons, knobs, switches, dials, or otherinput components, such as input component 1208. Controller 1204 may beconnected with the housing of personal aquatic propulsion 1200 devicevia wiring. The wiring may be encased in a water-proof tube, such astube 1212. Controller 1204 may be in communication with a motor,battery, propeller, or some combination of the aforementioned componentsof personal aquatic propulsion device 1200. Controller 1204 maycommunicate wirelessly.

FIG. 13A is an exemplary illustration of a rear view of personal aquaticpropulsion device 1308 being by worn by user 1304. A personal aquaticpropulsion device, such as personal aquatic propulsion device 1308, mayhave a propeller guard, such as propeller guard 1312.

FIG. 13B is an exemplary illustration of propeller guard 1312 connectedwith personal aquatic propulsion device 1308. In one embodiment, apropeller guard attaches to the propeller assembly of a personal aquaticpropulsion device. A propeller guard, such as propeller guard 1312, maybe permanently connected with a personal aquatic propulsion device ormay be removable. Furthermore, a propeller guard may be used inembodiments of a personal aquatic propulsion device that do not includea propeller. For example, a propeller guard may be connected with apersonal aquatic propulsion device that includes only vacuum pumps andthrusters and no propellers.

FIG. 13C is an exemplary illustration of a side-view of personal aquaticpropulsion device 1308 being worn by user 1304.

FIG. 14A is an exemplary illustration of a rear view of personal aquaticpropulsion device 1400. As shown in FIG. 14A-FIG. 14C, personal aquaticpropulsion device 1400 can have housing 1404 containing internalcomponents of personal aquatic propulsion device 1400. Personal aquaticpropulsion device 1400 can have a vest 1428 to which housing 1404attaches. Personal aquatic propulsion device 1400 can have a propellerassembly 1408. Propeller assembly 1408 can comprise intake opening 1448and propeller 1412. Personal aquatic propulsion device 1400 can alsohave flexible bands 1430 along a crevice that would be normallypositioned along the middle of the back of a user. Flexible bands 1430can be used to help increase comfort to the user, for operationalpurposes, or for other purposes. For example, flexible bands 1430 may beelastic and help personal aquatic propulsion device 1400 fit userbetter. Flexible bands 1430 may contract or expand to fit the usershape. There may be one or more flexible bands 1430 and can be used tohelp fit housing 1404 onto a user without need for a vest, such as vest1428. Flexible bands 1430 can be composed of an elastic material, suchas rubber, foam, latex, or any other material that functions in thisparticular manner.

FIG. 14B is an exemplary illustration of a front view of personalaquatic device 1400. Vest 1428 may have buckles 1408 that can be usedfor size adjustment. Personal aquatic propulsion device 1400 can alsohave LED indicators 1420. LED indicators 1420 can be used to indicate avariety of things, including battery level, whether the propeller is onor off, and whether the personal aquatic propulsion device 1400 ispowered on. LED indicators 1420 can be button as well as LED indicators.When pressed, LED indicators/buttons 1420 can perform various functions,such as turning the propeller assembly on or off or controlling thedirection of the user in the water. LED indicators/buttons 1420 can alsolight up or change colors when pressed. It is contemplated that the LEDindicators/buttons 1420 can perform a number of functions beyond what isdescribed in the disclosure.

Personal aquatic propulsion device 1400 can also have arm bands 1440,which can be used to stabilize the user while in the water. Arm bands1440 can be inflated using Carbon Dioxide (CO₂) canisters (not shown)for quick inflation. Arm bands 1440 can also be used to aid the user innavigating in the water or controlling operation. It is contemplatedthat arm bands 1440 can be used for other purposes beyond what isdescribed herein. Arm bands 1440 can also have buttons (not shown) thataid in the operation of the personal aquatic propulsion device 1400.Personal aquatic propulsion device 1400 can also have handles 1416 thatthe user can hold for support or for other purposes such as carryingpersonal aquatic propulsion device 1400 while it is not being worn.

FIG. 15A is an exemplary illustration of a side view of personal aquaticpropulsion device 1500. As shown in FIG. 15A-FIG. 15C, personal aquaticpropulsion device 1500 can have a housing 1504 containing internalcomponents of personal aquatic propulsion device 1500. Personal aquaticpropulsion device 1500 can have a vest 1528 to which housing 1504attaches. Personal aquatic propulsion device 1500 can also havepropeller assembly 1510, which can detach entirely from housing 1504.Propeller assembly 1510 can have handles 1516 that the user can use tocontroller direction and speed while in the water. Propeller assembly1510 can also have a locking mechanism that allows propeller assembly1510 to attach to housing 1504. Propeller assembly 1510 can have release1518 that will release that locking mechanism attaching propellerassembly 1510 to housing 1504. Propeller assembly 1510 can also haveintake opening 1548.

Propeller assembly 1510 and housing 1504 can have alignment fasteners1519. Alignment fasteners 1519 can be used to ensure that when propellerassembly 1510 is attached to housing 1504 that they are correctlyaligned. Alignment fasteners 1519 can be any material or device thatcould perform the described function, such as magnets, hook and loopfasteners, clasp buttons, and others. Propeller assembly 1510 can fitaround a user torso or vest 1528 in a semicircular shape. Propellerassembly 1510 can also fit on the back side of the user attaching tohousing 1504 or vest 1510.

FIG. 15B is an exemplary illustration of a side view of personal aquaticpropulsion device 1500 with propeller assembly 1520 detached. Propellerassembly 1510 can have intake opening 1548. When propeller assembly 1510is detached the direction of propulsion can be reversed. When thisoccurs, intake opening 1548 can become an exhaust.

FIG. 15C is an exemplary illustration of a front view of personalaquatic propulsion device 1500 with propeller assembly 1510 attached.Personal aquatic propulsion device 1500 can have buttons 1508 that canperform different functions when pressed, such as activating propellerassembly 1510.

FIG. 16A is an exemplary illustration of a rear view of personal aquaticpropulsion device 1600. As shown in FIG. 16A-FIG. 16D, personal aquaticpropulsion device 1600 can have a housing 1604 containing internalcomponents of personal aquatic propulsion device 1600. Personal aquaticpropulsion device 1600 can have vest 1628 to which housing 1604attaches. Personal aquatic propulsion device 1600 can have propellerassembly 1610. Propeller assembly 1610 can have propeller 1614, intakeopening 1648, and components to initiate propeller 1614 (not shown).Personal aquatic propulsion device 1600 can have solar panels 1630 thatcan be used to power propeller assembly 1610.

FIG. 16B is an exemplary illustration of a front view of personalaquatic propulsion device 1600. Personal aquatic propulsion device 1600can have buckle 1607 that can be adjustable. Personal aquatic propulsiondevice 1600 can have kill-switch 1609 that can instantly turn offpropeller assembly 1610. Kill-switch 1609 can be a button, lever,switch, or any other device that will instantly turn off propellerassembly 1610. Personal aquatic propulsion device 1600 can have controlbuttons 1650 that can be used to control the personal aquatic propulsiondevice 1600. Personal aquatic propulsion device 1600 can have powerbutton 1660 that can be used to turn personal aquatic propulsion device1600 on or off.

FIG. 16C is an exemplary illustration of a rear-side view of personalaquatic propulsion device 1600.

FIG. 16D is an exemplary illustration of a front-side view of personalaquatic propulsion device 1600.

Personal aquatic propulsion device 1600 can have a gyroscope (notshown). Personal aquatic propulsion device 1600 can have water levelsensor (not shown) that can determine how deep the user is submerged inthe water. Propeller assembly 1610 can have auto adjusting propeller1616 that uses the gyroscope (not shown) and water level sensor (notshown) to auto orient the user in the water using the auto adjustingpropeller 1616. For example, if the user begins to lean to one side,personal aquatic device 1600 can use the gyroscope to determine the userangle and send instructions to the auto adjusting propeller 1616 of whatangle to propel the user to make the user sit upright in the water. Thewater level sensor can determine how deeply submerged the user is in thewater. The water level sensor can be a part of vest 1628, housing 1604,zipper 1672, or any other part of personal aquatic propulsion device1600.

FIG. 17A is an exemplary illustration of a side view of personal aquaticpropulsion device 1700. As shown in FIG. 17-FIG. 17C, personal aquaticpropulsion device 1700 can have a housing 1704 containing internalcomponents of personal aquatic propulsion device 1700. Personal aquaticpropulsion device 1700 can have a vest 1728 to which housing 1704attaches. Personal aquatic propulsion device 1700 can also havepropulsion assemblies 1710, which can detach entirely from housing 1704.Propulsion assemblies 1710 can be individually attached to housing 1704via locking mechanism 1714, and can be released by activating releasemechanism 1716. Each propeller assembly 1710 can have handle 1720 thatthe user can use to orient propeller assemblies 1710. Propellerassemblies 1710 can have button 1717 that can initiate the propulsion.Propeller assembly 1710 can attach to housing 1704 in a variety of ways.For example, Propeller assembly 1710 can attach to housing 1704 increvice 1780. Crevice 1780 can be a shape that is substantially similarto the shape of propeller assembly 1710. In another example, propellerassemblies 1710 may attach to any portion to the side or rear of housing1704.

FIG. 17B is an exemplary illustration of a side view of personal aquaticpropulsion device 1700 with propeller assembly 1710 detached. Propellerassemblies 1710 can be attached to a power supply (not shown) in thevest via wire 1730. Wire 1730 may include an electrical wire to relaypower between propeller assemblies 1710 and housing 1704. The powersupply may also be located within propeller assemblies 1710. Wire 1730may be any flexible rope, string, or the like made of out of anymaterial such as cotton, rubber, and metal, among other things.

FIG. 17C is an exemplary illustration of a propeller assembly 1710.

In describing preferred embodiments of the subject matter of the presentdisclosure, as illustrated in the Figures, specific terminology isemployed for the sake of clarity. The claimed subject matter, however,is not intended to be limited to the specific terminology so selected,and it is to be understood that each specific element includes alltechnical equivalents that operate in a similar manner to accomplish asimilar purpose. It is contemplated herein that different portions ofembodiments of the personal aquatic propulsion device as discussedherein may be combined. For example, the personal aquatic propulsiondevice powered using physical activity, as discussed with regard to FIG.9, may be utilized with any personal aquatic propulsion deviceembodiment. The personal aquatic propulsion device can be worn by a userwithout the use of a vest. A vest is one type of user attachmentmechanism. Lack of an inflated or otherwise substantially buoyant vestmay be desired in order to have a user submerge under water with thepersonal aquatic propulsion device. Other user attachment mechanismsinclude one or more straps or other bands that allow for attachment of apersonal aquatic propulsion device to a user. For example housing 1404may be attached to the user without underlying vest 1428. Straps may beused to keep the device on the user. Housing 1404 (or other housingherein) may loop over the shoulders of a user and rest securely as shownin FIG. 16D. Housing 1404 may apply a securing force on a user without aneed for vest 1428.

Propulsion assembly (e.g., propeller assembly 108), housing (e.g.,housing 104), or other components of a propulsion device (e.g.,propulsion device 100) may include communicatively connected computercomponents. Computer components may include ROM, RAM, processors, powersupplies, and memory in order to make one or more components of thepropulsion device to automatically adjust, move, or otherwise executeinstructions. For example, gyroscopes and water sensors may communicateto automatically control one or more components of the propulsiondevice. Computer readable media may be used in connection with aprocessor to execute instructions to one or more components of thepropulsion device. Drives and their associated computer-readable mediaprovide non-volatile storage of computer readable instructions, datastructures, program modules and other data for the computer. Asdescribed herein, computer-readable media is a tangible, physical, andconcrete article of manufacture and thus not a signal per se.

A propulsion assembly connected with the rear facing portion as shown inFIG.'s (e.g., FIG. 1A, FIG. 15A, and throughout) may exert a forwardhorizontal propelling force on a wearer of the propulsion assembly,which may include a vest. The propelling force may be applied when thebacking, user attachment, housing, or the like is in a substantiallyvertical orientation.

The written description uses examples to disclose the invention,including the best mode, and also to enable any person skilled in theart to practice the invention, including making and using any devices orsystems and performing any incorporated methods. The patentable scope ofthe invention is defined by the claims and may include other examplesthat occur to those skilled in the art. Such other examples are intendedto be within the scope of the claims if they have structural elementsthat do not differ from the literal language of the claims, or if theyinclude equivalent structural elements.

What is claimed:
 1. A system for aquatic propulsion, comprising: a userattachment securable to enclose a torso of the body of a wearer of theuser attachment, the user attachment having a front facing portion and arear facing portion; and a propulsion assembly connected with the rearfacing portion, the propulsion assembly oriented to exert a forwardhorizontal propelling force on the user attachment wearer when the userattachment is in a substantially vertical orientation.
 2. The system ofclaim 1, wherein the propulsion assembly comprises bevel gears;
 3. Thesystem of claim 1, wherein the propulsion assembly further comprises avacuum pump and thrusters.
 4. The system of claim 1, wherein thepropulsion assembly is detachable from the user attachment.
 5. Thesystem of claim 1, comprising a second propulsion assembly, thepropulsion assembly and the second propulsion assembly detachable fromthe user attachment.
 6. The system of claim 1, further comprising: acontrol panel, comprising: control buttons; gauges; and indicators. 7.The system of claim 1, wherein the user attachment comprises: flotationmaterial.
 8. The system of claim 1, wherein the orientation of thepropulsion assembly is adjustable along a horizontal or vertical plane.9. The system of claim 1, further comprising solar cells providing powerfor the propulsion assembly.
 10. The system of claim 1, furthercomprising a sensor connected with the propulsion assembly.
 11. Thesystem of claim 1, further comprising a gyroscope connected with thepropulsion assembly.
 12. The system of claim 1, further comprising akill-switch connected with the propulsion assembly.
 13. The system ofclaim 1, further comprising a water level sensor connected with thepropulsion assembly.
 14. The system of claim 1, wherein the userattachment is a vest.
 15. The system of claim 1, further comprising alower extension connected with the propulsion assembly, the lowerextension supports a lower body of the wearer.
 16. The system of claim15, wherein the lower extension is telescoping.
 17. The system of claim15, wherein the lower extension is collapsible.